For the first time, the NFL will bring free and interactive fan experiences, including access to Combine drills and press conferences, autographs from NFL Legends, and virtual reality attractions, to the 2017 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, the NFL announced today.

The NFL COMBINE EXPERIENCE, which will take place at the Indiana Convention Center March 2-5, 2017, will bring fans up close to the action like never before. Fans will have the opportunity to watch the Bench Press; access the Media Center to view press conferences and interviews with Combine prospects; and enjoy a free festival with interactive games, youth football clinics, player autograph sessions with NFL Legends, virtual reality sessions, and more.

“We are excited to deliver to our fans new opportunities to be a part of the Scouting Combine, one of our most-anticipated annual events,” said NFL Senior Vice President of Events PETER O’REILLY. “With the new NFL Combine Experience, we have re-imagined the event to provide more access for our fans and to create unique ways for them to join the excitement as well as see the next generation of NFL players in Indianapolis.”

Fans may now register for the free NFL Combine Experience at NFL.com/CombineFMP. Tickets are required for entry and correspond to a particular day and time. NFL Combine Experience hours are:

Thursday,March 2: 12 Noon to 8 PM ET;

Friday, March 3: 12 Noon to 8 PM ET;

Saturday, March 4: 10 AM to 8 PM ET; and

Sunday, March 5: 10 AM To 5 PM ET.

In addition, a select group of fans will be able to watch the 2017 NFL Combine live from inside Lucas Oil Stadium on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (March 3-5). Fans may register for these free exclusive viewing opportunities via Fan Mobile Pass. Fans also are encouraged to check-in at events with Fan Mobile Pass for the chance to win autographed memorabilia, NFL game tickets, and more.

2017 NFL Scouting Combine

Held in Indianapolis since 1987, the 2017 NFL Scouting Combine will take place from February 28-March 6. The Combine will be televised by NFL Network and streamed on the NFL Mobile from Verizon app (NFL.com/mobile), the NFL app on XBOX, including interactive features from Microsoft, and through Watch NFL Network on tablets, PCs and various connected TV devices (NFL.com/watch), with participating television providers.

Audio programming will also be carried by SiriusXM NFL Radio and TuneIn app. For the full schedule and all the ways to watch the 2017 NFL Scouting Combine, go to: NFL.com/WatchCombine.

For the most up-to-date information, fans also can visit NFL.com/Combine and follow @NFL on Twitter. Fans are encouraged to share their experiences in Indianapolis using #NFLCombineExperience.

An assortment of free fan activities at the 2017 NFL Combine Experience in Indianapolis are detailed below.

NFL Combine Experience

Tickets are required and may be obtained for free at NFL.com/CombineFMP. A full list of NFL Combine Experience attractions, events and prohibited items is available at NFL.com/Combine.

Bench Press – From 2-5 PM ET daily, fans can cheer on prospects as they compete on the Bench Press.

Combine Media Center – Fans can get a behind-the-scenes look at press conferences and media interviews with Combine prospects at the Media Center.

Combine Corner – From racing against NFL players to running pass routes, fans may test their football and athletic skills at the Combine Corner. Featured attractions include the 40-Yard Dash, 3 Cone Drill, Broad Jump and Vertical Jump.

Obstacle Course – Race through agility drills just like the prospects. Test your high jump abilities and weave through mini-tackling dummies.

Play Football Field – Watch and learn football skills and drills from USA Football coaches and NFL Legends at youth football clinics and demonstrations on the Play Football field.

The Gauntlet – Run a straight route towards the end zone catching balls from JUGS machines on your left and right, and dive into the end zone for a touchdown.

Vince Lombardi Trophy – Fans may take their photo with the most prestigious trophy in sports.

College Corner – View College Football Hall of Fame memorabilia and life size player mannequins offering unique photo opportunities.

About Charlie Bernstein

Charlie Bernstein is the managing football editor for Football Insiders and has covered the NFL for over a decade. Charlie has hosted drive time radio for NBC and ESPN affiliates in different markets around the country, along with being an NFL correspondent for ESPN Radio and WFAN. He has been featured on the NFL Network as well as Sirius/XM NFL Radio and has been published on Fox Sports, Sports Illustrated, ESPN as well as numerous other publications.